Why We Should Bring Back Yearning in Books

Sep 12

2 min read

Why does romance seem to be a dying subject in today's world?

I see a lot more about passion, which is great, don't get me wrong, but I think I speak for many people when I say that I miss yearning. Connections that feel and sound real, even if they're just another fantasy.

With dark romance as a genre that's climbing to the top of reading charts, I speak for the girlies who used to swoon for stolen glances and the touch of pinky to pinky. While the dark and brooding characters are also my type, their personalities lack connection and realism.

So, let's bring back yearning!

Photo by Cesar Lalangui Eras from Pexels: https://www.pexels.com/photo/dramatic-low-light-portrait-of-resting-man-30449019/

Why is it important?

Publishing trends are based on fast-paced physical intimacy. There's hardly ever substance in some of the dark romance books I've read lately, and while it is a hit in the industry, it's not EVERYONE'S industry. Some of us miss slow-burns. Emotional tension mixed with a desire for deeper connection.

I also see a lot of discourse about the 'romance' these darker books are leading us to believe is desirable. I believe the industry wants to promote books that will sell, and what other industry does it remind me of? The pornographic industry.

I know this might incite some backlash, but here's a quick reminder that we don't have to agree!

Now back to the nitty-gritty. This industry of books is promoting like porn. It's quick, often emotionless, and yet somehow gets the job done. Somehow, the main characters meet in one chapter, and in the next they're jumping each other's bones. I say this as a relatively young person, so I'm not horribly old-fashioned, but I still feel like things could slow down a bit.

So what are we missing from these books?

PACING

As a reader and writer, I know just how tough this one is. Being an author who enjoys planning, it's difficult to slow things down when I know exactly how the story will unfold. Instead of the main characters hooking up 30% of the way through the book, I want their hands to brush against each other. I want their hearts to be absolutely racing!

They should still be learning about each other and growing closer. It takes time to get to know someone, and the same goes for books. As a reader, it's crucial that the pacing is slow enough for the characters' actions to be believable.

EMOTION

Pining, angst, and a heavy amount of flirtation are the holy trifecta of yearning. When time is put into the relationship between two characters, so is tension. Slower pacing will allow the characters to build emotions and trust with each other. Once trust is established, they'll be allowed to yearn within whatever storyline you put them into.